Pushing Electrons-Which Carbene Ligand for Which Application?

This tutorial explores the diversity and characteristics of C-donor ligands. Particular emphasis is put on the conceptual design of the electronic properties for applications in coordination chemistry. More specifically, the implications of both sigma and pi effects are discussed. Cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbenes as well as methanediides and carbones are brought in perspective to conventional N-heterocylic carbenes, mesoionic carbenes, and Fischer as well as Schrock carbene ligands.